The United Nations Women (UN Women) has highlighted Nigeria’s notable progress in women’s development, citing increased access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women across the country.
During the UN Women Nigeria Media Forum 2024 held in Abuja, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized that women now hold about 22 percent of decision-making positions in the private sector.
Ms. Eyong also highlighted significant achievements in gender equality and women’s empowerment, noting that 35 states in Nigeria have adopted the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act. States such as Adamawa, Ebonyi, Lagos, Sokoto, and Cross Rivers have taken further steps by developing Action Plans for implementing the VAP Act, aiming to eliminate violence and provide maximum protection and remedies for victims.
Additionally, success stories include the establishment of He for She Networks in 16 states, promoting support for gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives nationwide.
Ms. Eyong urged media practitioners to play a proactive role in educating the public and driving behavioral change. She stressed the media’s crucial role in shaping societal agendas and advocating for global issues of importance, particularly in addressing entrenched gender inequalities and promoting women’s rights and voices.